Raiders 53-man roster prediction: Preseason Week 2 edition

The Oakland Raiders are entering the second week of the preseason and this Saturday, they will take on the Los Angeles Rams. Usually, Week 2 of the preseason means we will likely see the Raiders’ starters for at least a quarter, if not more.

However, some of the players on the roster bubble will certainly get their chance, as well. Players like Chris Warren and Marcel Ateman, among others, should see a heavy number of snaps in the second half as they look to win jobs on the Raiders’ roster.

Quarterback (3)

Derek Carr, Conner Cook, EJ Manuel

The only real decision here is whether or not Jon Gruden decides to keep a third quarterback on the roster. Cook looked much improved in the team’s first preseason game while Manuel looked just OK. Given Gruden’s history of keeping three and sometimes four quarterbacks on the roster, Manuel’s roster spot is likely safe.

Running back (4)

Marshawn Lynch, Jalen Richard, Chris Warren, Keith Smith

One of the more competitive battles on the roster is at running back. Outside of Lynch, no one’s spot is safe. Richard is the most likely second back to make the roster as he is a dynamic receiver out of the backfield that can also create big plays as a runner. Expect him to get a lot of work on passing downs.

The final spot will come down to Doug Martin, DeAndre Washington, and Warren. Of the three, Warren has the highest ceiling as he may be the only one who could be a true workhorse back. Given his size and ability to pound the rock between the tackles, he might just be the type of runner that thrives in Gruden’s scheme.

I will fully acknowledge that this spot could go to Martin or Washington considering their experience, but after a strong first preseason game, I’m giving it to Warren.

The final spot will be given to fullback Keith Smith, who the team signed during free agency. Smith is an excellent blocker and who can do work as a receiver, but he is also a star on special teams. He even has experience playing linebacker in the NFL. He is a perfect player to have on the bottom of any roster.

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